Today, Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02) released the following statement:

 

“Last night, Donald Trump authorized a military operation to enact regime change in Venezuela. He acted without regard for the constitution and without considering the long-term consequences for our security or our democracy.

“To be clear, Maduro is a despot who stole elections, imprisoned his political opponents, and trampled on the rights and dignity of his people. But the Trump administration cannot unilaterally impose regime change and push the United States to the brink of war. This action endangers our citizens and democracy around the world. 

“Using military force to remove a foreign head of state unquestionably requires congressional authorization. Trump ignored that requirement, once again thumbing his nose at our constitution and Congress. At a minimum, Congress must be fully and transparently briefed and then take appropriate action.”

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